DLNR NEWS RELEASE: Salvage Work to Begin on Grounded Vessel at Molokai

Lost power and winds and waves brought it in half mile off Onealii beach

Photo courtesy Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement

KAUNAKAKAI, MOLOKAI — A 43 foot sailing vessel, “Mithrandir’s Dream,” ran aground about 2 a.m. last night a half-mile off the Molokai coast at Onealii near Kanoa fishpond. Investigation by DLNR’ Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement is ongoing.

Salvage company Parker Marine will be assessing the situation to determine how to free the grounded vessel and tow it to mooring

The vessel was headed from Oahu to Maui with two persons onboard. The vessel’s owner and captain reported having experienced electrical problems that disabled the boat’s GPS unit. The vessel’s auxiliary power was also inoperable. While under sail the winds shifted and the vessel ran aground.

The Coast Guard was notified and both passengers were airlifted to Maui by helicopter with no reported injuries. The vessel was reported to have approximately 50 gallons of diesel fuel aboard. Officers were unable to determine if any leakage occurred due to the offshore location. The owner stated that his vessel is insured with US Boats and that they have hired a marine salvage company to begin the vessel removal this weekend, ocean conditions permitting.